Kyrgyzstan
The mountains, including the Tian Shan Mountains (pictured), give Kyrgyzstan a unique
culture, partially formed from this isolation from the mountains.
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Social Life in Japan

Behavior

The Japanese are very well aware of the world around them as well as the differences
in opinions and behaviors. Because of this they are quite understanding of various
cultures and foreigners so odd behaviors are generally accepted, but not encouraged.

Your behavior should begin with modesty as being loud, rude, showing off wealth,
or dressing provocatively will get you stares. Likewise, placing yourself above
others or boasting is viewed negatively.

Additionally, the Japanese people are very proud and insulting
them or putting a person down in anyway can be very offensive as the person will
feel "shamed." Additionally, turning down an invitation or offer may be
received as an insult to the inviter. Due to this, the Japanese will rarely give
you critical advice, insult you, or put you in a situation in which an answer is
immediately needed in fear of "shaming" you. This is especially true in
business. Turning down a business offer or even an invitation to a meal or event
may unknowingly be an insult and could force your contact to feel so shamed that
he will actually leave his job; if all hope is lost on a business deal, allow your
Japanese counterpart to gracefully exit the situation so he can save "face."

When greeting people in business, follow the local's lead. Although bowing is
common among locals, many Japanese take great pride in understanding foreign customs
and may insist on following European etiquette. Allow them to take the lead and
follow suite. One thing that must be followed however is acknowledgement of the
person speaking to you, which is symbolized by a regular head nod when a point is
made. It is considered rude to make strong eye contact with a person older or more
respected than you. Finally, there are numerous meanings behind body language so
avoid touching your face or head, as simply scratching your head may send an unintentional
message to the present company.

Dress

The traditional clothing of Japan is called the kimono, which is a simple
garment that completely covers a person from the neck down. This outfit, worn by
both men and women, comes in various designs and styles as differing types of kimono
are used for differing occasions. Generally, men wear a black kimono, which
women wear kimono of every color and pattern as well as scenes from nature
or the animal world. Women also tend to include numerous details on their kimono,
such as a sash called an obi and a belt-like rope called an obijime.

Today the kimono is only worn on special occasions in Japan as most people
prefer western-styled clothing, which range in style and design significantly as
there are few dress restrictions in Japan. As a visitor to Japan there is, likewise,
no real dress restrictions as shorts and short-sleeved shirts are common and well
accepted. Clothes that is quite revealing may be looked down upon, but short skirts
are no uncommon in Japan. More than anything, dress for the weather and the occasion
in Japan. Temples always require more conservative dress and the cities, especially
during work hours, tend to be quite formal. There seems to be a differing dress
from day to night in many cities as the work crowd fades and the nightlife begins.
If in doubt, dress on the more conservative and formal side.